Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD): Can this concept explain therapeutic benefits of cannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant conditions? A recent literature review was completed to show that there may be an underlying clinical endocannabinoid deficiency that may be suitably treated with cannabinoid medicines. These scientists conclude this by analyzing literature about migraine headache, IBS and other related common fibromyalgia symptoms.

New York Chiropractic College recently opened its Chiropractic Assistant school. The first in the nation (probably the world!). The school is based out of New Jersey but many of the classes are online. I had the privilege of writing the courses for : domestic violence, professional ethics, how professionals can handle sexual assault cases, legal issues and much more.

Other courses with NYCC also addresses addiction and nutrition and medical errors.

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is used by some people with chronic pain.
CBD oil may reduce pain, inflammation, and overall discomfort related
to a variety of health conditions. CBD oil is a product made from
cannabis. It’s a type of cannabinoid, a chemical found naturally in
marijuana and hemp plants. It doesn’t cause the “high” feeling often
associated with cannabis, which is caused by a different type of
cannabinoid called THC.

Studies on CBD oil and pain management
have shown a great deal of promise. CBD can offer an alternative for
people who have chronic pain and rely on more dangerous, habit-forming
medications like opioids. But there needs to be more research in order to verify the pain-relieving benefits of CBD oil.

CBD
products aren’t approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
for any medical condition. They aren’t regulated for purity and dosage
like other medications.

Keep reading to learn more about the
potential benefits of CBD oil for pain. You can also talk with your
doctor to see if it is an option for your condition.

Researchers
think that CBD interacts with receptors in your brain and immune
system. Receptors are tiny proteins attached to your cells that receive
chemical signals from different stimuli and help your cells respond.
This creates anti-inflammatory and painkilling effects that help with
pain management. This means that CBD oil may benefit people with chronic
pain, such as chronic back pain.

One 2008 review
assessed how good CBD works to relieve chronic pain. The review looked
at studies conducted between the late 1980s and 2007. Based on these
reviews, researchers concluded CBD was effective in overall pain
management without adverse side effects. They also noted that CBD was
beneficial in treating insomnia related to chronic pain.

The authors of the study also noted that CBD was most helpful in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

A 2016 study
looked at the use of CBD in rats with arthritis. Researchers applied
CBD gel to rats for four days in a row. They applied 0.6, 3.1, 6.2, and
62.3 milligrams per day. The researchers noted reduced inflammation and
overall pain in the rats’ affected joints without side effects.

The
anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of the CBD gel could hold
promise for people with arthritis. However, more human studies are
needed. ADVERTISING

CBD
oil is also used by some people who have cancer. A few studies in mice
have shown a reduction of cancerous tumors. But most human studies have
involved research into the role of CBD oil in managing pain related to
cancer and cancer treatment. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has pointed to CBD as a possible option for relieving symptoms caused by chemotherapy.

One
study by the NCI tested CBD oil extracts sprayed into the mouth. The
CBD oil was used in conjunction with opioids. This study revealed better
pain management with the help of CBD oil. But more research is still
needed.

CBD oil doesn’t pose significant risks for users. However, side effects are possible. These include:

nausea

sleeping issues

irritability

Withdrawal
symptoms are rare after you stop using it, and much rarer compared with
addictive substances like opioids. Most withdrawal symptoms are related
a return of the original symptoms of anxiety or pain.

The National Cancer Institute also warns against the use of CBD in children due to possible adverse effects on brain development.

Overall,
researchers agree that while there isn’t conclusive data to support CBD
oil as the preferred method of pain management, these types of products
have a lot of potential. CBD products might be able to offer relief for
many people who have chronic pain, all without causing intoxication and
dependence. Oil versions of CBD may not be as effective as other forms,
and more human studies are needed.

CBD oil is widely available through online outlets. It is also available in some clinics in places where its usage is legal.

Interactions: Drug interactions are a significant consideration in modern medicine. More than half of U.S. adults regularly take prescription meds and at least 75 percent of Americans take at least one over-the-counter drug. Many people, including most seniors (the fastest growing demographic of cannabis users), take multiple drugs, and these compounds can interact and affect the metabolism of each other.

Several variables make precise predictions about drug interactions
difficult, even for practiced physicians. “It is much easier to assess
whether drug interactions are likely than to predict their exact
effect,” the Project CBD primer asserts

To the extent that there have been problematic drug interactions with cannabinoids, these have involved high doses of nearly pure CBD isolates, not cannabis in general. Even though THC is an intoxicant and CBD is not, the fact that people tend to use much higher doses of pure CBD makes it a much riskier player in metabolic drug interactions.

Drug interactions are much more likely with high dose CBD therapy than other forms of cannabis consumption. Physicians and patients should be concerned about this, given that the current regulatory regime privileges CBD isolates over artisanal, plant-derived, multicomponent formulations.

How dangerous are cannabinoid-drug interactions? As dangerous as
mis-dosing the other drug(s) that a patient is taking. Problems are more
likely to arise when a patient combines a high dose of an otherwise
benign CBD isolate with a pharmaceutical that has a very narrow window between its therapeutic and toxic levels.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND A BOOKLET COVERING POSSIBLE DRUG INTERACTIONS published by Project CBD contact us.

Chronic low-level inflammation can severely erode your health; the silent lurker
contributes to at least seven of the ten leading causes of mortality in
the United States — which include heart disease, cancer, chronic lower
respiratory disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and
nephritis.

While real organic food and proper
nutrition should be the base of any anti-inflammatory protocol, CBD has
shown to significantly suppress chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain without causing dependency or tolerance

Do you suffer from an autoimmune disease , neurodegenerative disease, or cancer? Some studies have shown CBD oil to be effective in prevention and treatment.

Today, chronic disease is on the rise like never before, with oxidative stress playing a significant causative role. Oxidative stress
occurs when the body has too many free radicals and can’t counteract
the damage. People fall prey when eating a nutrient deficient diet or
when they experience an onslaught of toxins and the body can’t keep up
and detox, causing more symptoms of disease.

A study published in the journal Pharmacology concluded that CBD could represent a novel fast antidepressant drug, via enhancing both serotonergic and glutamate cortical signalling through a 5-HT1A receptor-dependent mechanism.

Another abstract published in 2016 –Antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like effects of cannabidiol: a chemical compound of Cannabis sativa. concluded that CBD is effective for depression.

Anxiety and depression are pathologies that affect human beings in many aspects of life, including social life, productivity and health. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a constituent non-psychotomimetic of Cannabis sativa with great psychiatric potential, including uses as an antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like compound. The aim of this study is to review studies of animal models using CBD as an anxiolytic-like and antidepressant-like compound. Studies involving animal models, performing a variety of experiments on the above-mentioned disorders, such as the forced swimming test (FST), elevated plus maze (EPM) and Vogel conflict test (VCT), suggest that CBD exhibited an anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects in animal models discussed. Experiments with CBD demonstrated non-activation of neuroreceptors CB1 and CB2. Most of the studies demonstrated a good interaction between CBD and the 5-HT1A neuro-receptor.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of more than 100 chemical compounds
derived from cannabis, a plant also known as marijuana. A small body of
research suggests that cannabidiol may help people with fibromyalgia.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the medicinal use of CBD for, although CBD received approval for use in treating two types of epilepsy in June 2018.

Research is ongoing, and the legal status of this and other
cannabinoids varies. A person should check their local laws before
attempting to obtain CBD.

Nonetheless, CBD remains a popular choice. In this article, we
explore why CBD may be able to relieve the pain of fibromyalgia. We also
examine its most effective use and potential side effects.

Is CBD the same as marijuana?

CBD is one of many chemicals found in some strains of marijuana.

In short, CBD is not the same as marijuana. CBD is one of many chemicals found in some strains of the marijuana plant.

However, CBD is responsible for many of medical marijuana’s health
benefits. More concentrated forms of CBD, such as cannabidiol oil, could
offer greater benefits with fewer risks than using medical marijuana.

The compound in marijuana that gets users high is called
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). No evidence suggests that CBD can get a
person high. This may make it a good option for people who:

want to abstain from marijuana use

have a history of bad reactions to marijuana

are uncomfortable using mind-altering substances

do not want to experience a high but still want to experience the health benefits

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in administering
CBD to children with epilepsy, because it is effective in reducing
seizures that do not respond well to other medications.

How does CBD for fibromyalgia work?

Only a few studies have looked at the effectiveness of CBD in treating fibromyalgia.

Researchers cannot decisively say why the compound appears to reduce
some fibromyalgia symptoms, but there are some strong theories that are
still being tested in research.

They also do not understand why it works in some people and not in others.

The pain-relieving effects of CBD may be explained by
the ways that this substance affects the brain. It may interrupt the
nerve pathways that send signals of pain between the brain and the body.

There is also an anti-inflammatory action of CBD that would reduce
heat and swelling around injury or disease. This, in turn. would reduce
pain.

A 2016 study
suggested that a lack of endocannabinoids — neurotransmitters that bind
to cannabinoid receptors — may be at the root of chronic pain
syndromes, including migraines and fibromyalgia. Taking CBD may correct this deficiency, explaining the compound’s success in alleviating chronic pain.

The driving force behind your system of neurotransmitters and their
corresponding receptors is called your endocannabinoid system. Thanks to
the discovery of the endocannabinoid system, researchers now have a
better understanding of how brain chemicals interact and communicate,
what happens when the communication system fails, and how to potentially
restore the communication processes.

The Neurotransmitters that Influence Your Endocannabinoid System

Your body makes the neurotransmitters that regulate this vital
system. They are called endocannabinoids because they are processed
within. Your two main endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-AG.

Your body also responds to exogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoids from
an outside source. Exogenous cannabinoids are found in the extract (CBD)
of the cannabis plants, hemp, and marijuana. Both plants are equally
beneficial, but marijuana has high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
which is a psychoactive cannabinoid, hemp does not. You will not get
high from hemp CBD oil.

The Many Functions of Your Endocannabinoid System

Exogenous cannabinoids mimic the effects of your endocannabinoids,
interacting and communicating with receptors throughout your
endocannabinoid system. Your endocannabinoid system is responsible for
nearly every function and process in your body. Just some of the
functions regulated by this system include:

Your moods and emotional responses

Stress responses and anxiety

Metabolism and energy

Neuroprotection and muscle movement

Memory and learning

Sleep cycles

Reproductive function

Pain perception and inflammation

Cardiovascular function

The endocannabinoids in your body are produced as needed and quickly
broken down by enzymes. The exogenous cannabinoids from CBD are stronger
and longer lasting.

The Potential Consequences of System Imbalance

Because your endocannabinoid system is crucial to so many vital
functions, some researchers are suggesting that many health concerns
could be the result of imbalances within the endocannabinoid system.
This theory could explain why the research into supplementing the
endocannabinoid system with CBD is showing so many potential benefits.

Research shows that CBD has the potential to alleviate pain, improve
sleep, reduce inflammation, and improve the symptoms of anxiety and
depressive disorders, including bipolar affective disorder. While the
study of the endocannabinoid system is relatively new, the results have
been quite fascinating.

Understanding the Basics of Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorders cause marked changes in a persons mood, behavior,
energy levels, and function. Those living with a bipolar disorder
experience extreme, intense emotional states, referred to as mood
episodes. Due to the complexity of the condition, bipolar disorder often
goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as depression. Episodes of extreme
emotion can be classified as manic, hypomanic or depressive.

Manic Episodes

A manic episode is a period where a person has more energy than
usual. They may seem high-spirited, very happy, or irritable. During a
manic episode, a person may sleep less, have racing thoughts or engage
in risky behaviors, like spending sprees or reckless driving. A manic
mood episode may be severe enough to cause problems with work, family,
social relationships and interfere with responsible behavior. Manic
episodes may also progress to paranoia, delusions or psychosis.

Hypomanic Episodes

Symptoms of hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes, though
less severe. Hypomania does not cause as many potential problems as
mania, and the person living with hypomania is typically still able to
function.

Major Depressive Episodes

A depressive episode is classified as a period where a person has
lost interest in activities they previously enjoyed, experiences
feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or guilt. During a depressive
episode, a person may experience extreme fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Concentration levels or decision-making processes may be impaired. Some
may have thoughts of suicide or death.

The Medications Typically Used to Treat Bipolar Disorder

Some people living with bipolar disorder may only experience a few
cycles of episodes in their entire lifetime, while others will cycle
through both extremes of the disorder daily. Treatment typically
involves a combination of support programs, psychiatric counseling, and
possibly hospitalization to get a severe manic or depressive episode
stabilized with medications. Some of the medications typically used to
treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder include:

While antidepressants, anticonvulsants and anti-psychotic medication
are typically used for bipolar symptoms, finding the optimal combination
of drugs can be tricky. Treating the symptoms of one aspect of the
disorder can trigger the other. More than half of those living with
bipolar do not feel that their medications alleviate their symptoms,
many stop taking their medications.

Some give up taking medications because of the side effects, some for
the high costs, and others because they believe they no longer need
them. While many eventually return to taking prescription medications,
some patients look to diet, exercise or supplementing their
neurotransmitters and receptors with CBD from non-psychoactive hemp, for
the potential benefits of mood stabilization.

The Potential Benefits of CBD for the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

While there are currently few studies on the use of CBD for bipolar
disorder, CBD appears to generate the same type of response in the body
as many of the medications used to treat the condition. The
neuroprotective and antioxidative benefits of CBD may also help to
alleviate the symptoms of bipolar and increase the levels of
brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels.

It’s not difficult to find testimony from people living with bipolar
disorder crediting CBD for relieving their symptoms, or reducing the
side effects of their current medications. While testimonies are
anecdotal, their findings appear to be backed by scientific evidence.

A federally funded research study
neurologically assessed 133 patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
The test subjects took 100 mg of CBD daily over the course of several
weeks. All 133 participants reported feeling consistent energy levels
throughout the day and stable mood levels. At the end of the study,
their neurological tests were administered Each of the participants
showed remarkable improvement in attention, verbal fluency, executive
functioning and logical- memory recall.

Research also suggests that CBD appears to act similarly to atypical
antipsychotic drugs without the potentially serious and long-term side
effects, by providing anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing benefits,
similarly to the medications used to treat manic episodes. CBD is also
shown to have value as a low-risk antidepressant that is unlikely to
interfere with prescription medications.

CBD as a Natural Dietary Supplement

It’s important to remember that CBD is not a cure or treatment for
any disorder. CBD is not a medication; it is a dietary supplement with
the potential to supplement the neurotransmitters and influence the
receptors that regulate your moods, emotions, and nearly every
important function regulated by your endocannabinoid system.

The information supporting the use of CBD from hemp is based on
research results, animal studies and the testimonies of those who claim
benefits from CBD supplements. If you have a medical condition or take
medication, it is important to discuss the potential benefits of CBD
with your healthcare provider. CBD is known to interact with some
medications.

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Studies show that regular consumption of CBD may actually improve
cognitive function. Many mental illnesses, such as depression, have to
do with an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Others directly impact
one’s neurology.

In addition to the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoids in CBD oil
also interact with the body’s central nervous system. CBD may promote
healthy nerve function and stimulate healthy neuron firing and
interaction.

As a result, individuals with mental illness who take CBD oil may
experience clarity of mind and greater levels of rational thinking.

Many maintain that CBD oil may even foster a greater sense of
self-awareness. This can be critical for people with mental illness who
may feel at the mercy of their disorders.